Recycling crisis is one of consumers' own doing

I get it. We have a recycling fiasco occurring currently, but it can be fixed.

This is not China's fault, this is our fault.

It is our recycling companies' fault for having such a knee-jerk reaction to the ban. Yes, they performed poorly and they were not prepared.

But this is also the fault of consumers for throwing garbage into the recycling for decades. Just as having a driver's license is a privilege and not a right, recycling is a privilege and not a right.

I find it appalling consumers believe they can throw dirty diapers in the recycling and think that someone else will deal with it. Also: wet wipes' are not flushable or biodegradable. Grease cannot be poured down the drain.

As consumers, we need to be more aware of how our actions affect people down the processing line from us.

The solution to this current crisis is by following recycling guidelines set by the recycling companies. In a few years, Oregon and the United States will figure out a solution, but it will take time.

The best way to disrespect our decedents who will inhabit this world after we're gone is with irresponsible actions.